When should I take the GRE?

Hi everyone! If you are
anything like me, you hate standardized tests, and unfortunately, the GRE is a required test that most schools
require. So, when should you take it? As cliché as this sounds, take it
when you are ready.

The worst thing you can do is take the GRE when you are not ready,
so take a breath and take your time! It would suck if you took the GRE unprepared and get a
score that you are unsatisfied with and must take it over. With that being
said, how should I study for the GRE?

I used Magoosh's online
study material when I studied for the GRE. I am a very structured person, and I need guidance and
a set study schedule when I am studying, and Magoosh provides just that! It has a lot of positive
feedback from other users, and Magoosh's exam
questions are very like the actual GRE.
Another thing that I liked about Magoosh is
that it provided a wide array of questions with various difficulties, and
it also provided a predicted GRE score,
which was the exact score I ended up getting on the GRE. It also has an app for the vocabulary that is high-yield on the exam, and this app is available on Apple products and on Androids. When I started studying with Magoosh, I saw a 10-point increase with
my overall score, so I highly recommend it!

I also used ETSGRE Super Power Pack, which can be found
at Barnes and Noble. These books are made by the test maker’s, and it is an accurate
representation of the type of questions that may be asked on exam day.

Another tip is to give yourself at least 2-3 months
of dedicated study time prior to taking the exam. I know every one's
schedule is different, but I was working full-time and taking pre-reqs,
and this was more than enough time for me. For those who want to have
their scores prior CASPA opening,
I suggest studying for the exam in December or January and taking the exam
in April, which is what path I took, and this was more than enough time
for me.

Another tip is to take as much practice exams as
possible! I took at least 1 practice exam on a weekly basis, and I
reviewed every question after the exam whether it was correct or
incorrect. By reading the explanations, it gave me a better sense of what
the test makers' logic and what they were thinking for each type of question.

I hope these tips help. I know the GRE seems like such a tedious test, but
it is one hurdle you must battle through before becoming a PA. In the end, it is
going to be worth it! I know you may be feeling discouraged now, but DO NOT
GIVE UP!!

If you have any questions, do not
hesitate to contact me! I am always open to questions. I have provided links to all the study materials that I used as well. Good luck everyone!

1 comment

These points are not only for GRE but can also be implemented to other exams as well. I am taking the law exam this year and I totally agree with the part where you said that practice is very much important. I practice a lot and also go for the Best LSAT Prep Course.